~ by Ashley Knudsen, Print Consultant, California
Before we dive headfirst into designing this year’s book, it’s important that we take a moment to pause, reflect, and learn from the year before. Great yearbooks don’t just happen; they’re built on the lessons we’ve learned and a clear vision for what’s next. So, let’s break it down and take a good look at last year’s book. What worked, what didn’t, and what can we do better?
LAYOUT & DESIGN: DID IT FLOW?
Start by flipping through the book spread by spread. Ask yourself:
- Did the layouts feel clean and consistent?
- Were there too many fonts or just the right mix?
- Was there enough white space or did some pages feel cluttered?
- Did each section transition smoothly to the next?
Design isn’t just about looking pretty; it’s about guiding the reader’s eye and making the experience enjoyable from cover to cover.
WRITING: VOICE, ACCURACY, AND IMPACT
Now, let’s take a critical look at the writing:
- Were the captions informative and engaging?
- Did the articles have a clear voice and structure?
- Were names spelled correctly? (A big one!)
- Did the writing reflect the true spirit of the school year?
Think about how the writing made you feel. Did it capture real moments? Or did it feel like filler?
PHOTO QUALITY & PLACEMENT
Photography is everything in a visual product like a yearbook. Let’s assess:
- Were the photos high-resolution and in focus?
- Did the pictures reflect a wide range of activities and students?
- Were group photos clearly labeled?
- Did images match the tone and message of each spread?
One strong photo is better than five that don’t say much. Look for photos that tell stories.
MODULES & EXTRAS: WERE THEY FUN AND FRESH?
Let’s talk mods…those mini stories, polls, and features that bring the personality of the student body to life.
- Did we include fun, creative modules that added variety?
- Did the mods reflect student interests or trends?
- Were they well designed and easy to read?
If not, consider adding some of these this year:
- “Most Likely To” superlatives by grade level
- “Behind the Scenes” spreads of rehearsals, practices, or leadership planning
- Staff shoutouts or student thank-you notes
- QR codes linking to videos, school events, or hype reels
- “Trend Tracker” showing what was popular this year in music, fashion, or slang
- Spotify-style “Wrapped” pages for clubs or sports (most wins, top quotes, etc.)
These extras turn a yearbook into a true time capsule. Need more ideas? Check out our “Don’t Have Enough Content?” blog.
COVERAGE: DID WE INCLUDE EVERYONE?
This one is big!! Especially from a marketing standpoint.
- Did we do a good job getting as many students in the book as possible?
- Were there repeated faces while others were missed entirely?
- Did we represent all clubs, teams, and grade levels?
When students see themselves in the book, they’re more likely to buy the book. It’s that simple. Make a plan to track student appearances this year and set goals for improving total coverage.
LEARN IT, FIX IT, LEVEL UP
No yearbook is ever perfect…but each one teaches us how to be better storytellers, designers, and marketers. Use last year’s book as a springboard. Talk openly about what could be improved. More importantly, don’t forget to celebrate what you loved about it!
And this year, let’s not just meet expectations, let’s surprise people with fresh ideas, better coverage, and pages that truly reflect our school community. It’s your book. It’s your legacy. Let’s make it count.
Ashley Knudsen is one of our Friesens Yearbook Print Consultants in California. Over the years she has mastered the art of capturing memories and telling stories through vibrant and engaging yearbooks. She excels in assisting schools with design and marketing strategies, ensuring each yearbook not only looks amazing but also effectively reaches its audience.
